A CHILDREN'S nursery has been named as one of the top 20 recommended providers in the North East after parents heaped praise on it for its response to the pandemic.

Little Ladybirds Day Nursery in Preston Farm, Stockton, topped the list in 2021 with a review score of 10 out of 10.

It is the fourth year in a row the nursery has been named as one of the region's top 20.

Only the reviews made by families are considered when daynurseries.co.uk - the UK’s leading day nurseries reviews website – compiles its yearly top 20 awards.

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The nurseries high rating was primarily down to reviews left by people whose children were able to continue attending Little Ladybirds – apart from an initial two-month period when Covid-19 restrictions were first imposed – with the nursery’s staff having been designated as key workers.

One mum said: “After my daughter was living most of her life in lockdown, I was extremely apprehensive about leaving her at a nursery all together, but Little Ladybirds changed that. My daughter smiles as she approaches the building and puts her arms out to the staff. She is such a happy little girl when I pick her up and is well cared for. The staff are expectational and incredibly professional.”

Another mum said: “I have been very impressed with how they have handled any Covid-19 related issues, including their prompt actions and communications with parents. I have never heard a bad word about Little Ladybirds Nursery, and I would definitely recommend.”

And another mum said: “As a single mum who has had her son by her side 24/7 since he was born, needless to say I was anxious about him starting nursery. I can honestly say this nursery has made the transition as seamless as possible.”

Claire Harrison-Jones, nursery manager, said “We are delighted to have been named as one of the top 20 nurseries in the North East of England for the fourth consecutive year and to have scored a perfect 10 out of 10 for the second time in a row

“It’s even more special this year because of all the challenges we faced due to Covid-19.

“It’s testament to the amazing support we receive from parents, and we would also like to give a very special mention to our staff who have gone above and beyond every day to ensure we remain an outstanding nursery.”

Little Ladybirds is part of the Clever Clogs Group of nurseries, which also has facilities in Belmont and Bowburn, both in County Durham.

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